What does the rehabilitation process look like following an amputation above the elbow?

An amputation above the elbow is a complex procedure that looks a bit different for each patient. Many people need this amputation after a traumatic injury, and the procedure puts your body and your mind under a lot of stress. Making a full, successful recovery requires care and attention in each part of your life that’s been affected by your condition and your amputation.

Outpatient medical rehab helps you progress toward several recovery goals at once while maintaining your independence. It combines multiple therapies and helps you stay connected with a supportive community.

This article outlines the types of rehabilitation most patients receive after an above-the-elbow amputation.

What can I expect during rehabilitation for above-elbow amputation?

The rehab phase after an above-the-elbow amputation may include outpatient pre-prosthetic rehab and rehab focusing on prosthetic training. Within a couple of days after your surgery, an occupational therapist may be consulted for postsurgery care. They will help you care for your arm postsurgery. You will not have therapy for approximately two weeks after surgery until you see your physician. At that time they will send you to outpatient occupational therapy.

Rehab for above-the-elbow amputation should be a highly personalized program that integrates several therapies. Occupational therapy will address strength, range of motion, and activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) tasks (e.g., dressing and meal preparation). You may also benefit from psychotherapy and support groups to help you manage the emotional impact of your amputation. Finally, you’ll start to transition back to life outside of rehab with employment services and driving rehabilitation.

The prehab phase

Rehab activities may begin before surgery (if a nontraumatic injury). An occupational therapist will assess your range of motion and strength in your shoulder and begin strengthening in preparation for your prosthetic use. Your doctor will talk with you about your health history and any risk factors that will affect your rehabilitation. You’ll learn about the surgical approach for your amputation and start exploring your options for prosthetics.

If your injury is nontraumatic, mentally preparing for the loss is important. Discussing concerns and asking questions of your physician, therapist and prosthetist may help you prepare for what the future looks like.

Wound care

True rehab begins when you wake up from surgery. Within a couple of days, an occupational therapist will do an assessment with you. You will be followed by your prosthetist as well as an occupational therapist while in the hospital. 

Rehabilitation and pre-prosthetic care

Your prosthetist will monitor your limb and provide wraps and/or shrinkers to help with swelling and forming your limb for a future prosthetic. Your doctor and prosthetist will determine when you are ready for a prosthetic. Sometimes, a 3D printed prosthetic is used initially until your definitive prosthesis is complete. You will work in occupational therapy to prepare for using the prosthesis then using it in your everyday life.

A comprehensive rehab program for above-the-elbow amputation should include the following:

  • Occupational therapy — OT will work on strength, range of motion, and activities of daily living, such as putting your prosthetic on, dressing, bathing, cooking, doing laundry, etc.
  • Counseling — Your motivation is one of your most important resources during rehab. Your counselor or therapist will help you work through the emotional challenges during this period of change.
  • Peer support We can connect you with others who have had an amputation who are a great resource for connection and support. These individuals can relate to what you are experiencing and offer support and suggestions.
  • Employment services — If your amputation affects your job, you have resources and support. At Ability KC, our rehab programs include employment support services.
  • Driving rehabilitation services — You may require adaptations for driving after your amputation. A driving evaluation and training program can help you with assistive technology, defensive driving practices and evaluations.

What should I look for in an outpatient rehabilitation facility for above-elbow amputation rehabilitation?

You may benefit from occupational therapy services in outpatient rehabilitation. You’ll be spending a lot of time in the clinic you choose, and it’s important that you trust the staff you work with. We recommend looking for a facility that offers care plans that are tailored to each patient. Your care plan should help you work toward personal and specific goals for physical, emotional and social rehabilitation.

Here’s a bit about what we offer at Ability KC:

  • Comprehensive and patient-centered rehabilitation plan
  • Collaborative and integrated care team
  • Individual counseling and 1:1 peer mentoring
  • Support for your overall diet, wellness and lifestyle
  • Return-to-work navigation
  • Driving evaluation and training program
  • Multiple credentials and accreditations

We care about providing attentive rehab services and support that changes lives for the better. We keep up with national and international accreditation for your protection. Ability KC is a designated Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF) with a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation.

What questions do you still have about rehab for above-the-elbow amputation? Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.